business development manager - sports sector

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Our client is a fast-growing sports media and digital engagement platform focused on football across Iraq, Kurdistan, and the wider MENA region, is seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to lead its commercial growth and partnership strategy.

The successful candidate will be responsible for expanding the network of sports partners, including clubs, leagues, federations, academies, media organizations, and advertisers. The role will focus on generating revenue through sponsorships, advertising sales, strategic partnerships, and commercial campaigns while strengthening the platform’s presence across regional markets.

This is a highly autonomous and relationship-driven position requiring a strong understanding of the sports industry, digital platforms, media partnerships, and commercial business development. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in partnership acquisition, sponsorship sales, contract negotiations, and stakeholder management, with the ability to identify growth opportunities and drive long-term business success.

Salary: Between 4,000 & 6,000 USD (Depending on experience)

Contract Duration:  2 years (Renewable)

Vacation Entitlement:  22 Working days

Weekends/Days off:  1 day per week

Type: Hybrid

Candidate Requirements: 

• Proven experience in finance leadership roles within sports media, sports technology, digital media, technology platforms, mobile applications, online content, or related industries.
• Strong understanding of digital business models, including mobile applications, media platforms, advertising revenue, subscriptions, sponsorships, and fan engagement ecosystems.
• Experience supporting organizations involved in live sports coverage, digital content distribution, sports analytics, or sports technology platforms is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, financial reporting, and business performance analysis.
• Experience managing financial operations for high-growth, technology-driven businesses with multiple revenue streams.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to provide financial insights that support business growth, user acquisition, and revenue optimization.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft 365, particularly Excel, Power BI, and financial reporting tools.
• Experience with ERP systems, financial controls, compliance, and risk management.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Professional accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, CMA, CA, or equivalent) preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in finance, Accounting, Commerce, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Experience in the Middle East region and familiarity with the sports, media, or technology sectors would be a strong advantage.